Additional Info
Hard drive space
Full download: 1.31 GB
Initial download: 0.44 GB
Download time
| Kb/s | 20 MB | 8 MB | 512 KB |
|---|---|---|---|
| Time | 2mn | 5mn | 1h 20mn |
System Requirements
- Operating System: 2000/XP,Vista
- Processor: 133MHz
- OS: Windows
- RAM: 32MB
Copyright
Descent: Freespace © 1998 Volition, Inc. ¿ Interplay Entertainment Corp. All Rights Reserved.
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Overview
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Instructions & Tips
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Screenshots & Video
Basics
Descent: Freespace is a high-action space fighter simulation in which you must join forces with your old enemies, the Vasudans, to combat a terrifying new threat to your sector. The Shivans have better technology, greater numbers and a more bloodthirsty attitude. To make matters worse, isolated dissidents in the Terran and Vasudan sides are still fighting the old war. Fly multiple fighters through more than 30 varied, branching missions in your epic struggle with the Shivans.
Getting Started
The first time it runs, Freespace will do a few tests on your system to set itself up. This is an older game, so feel free to crank the graphic candy up to the maximum in the options menu -- today's computers will run it just fine. Once you're done with that, click the start game button, watch the opening movie, and enter your pilot callsign. Then mouse around the hangar to see the locations you can visit on the ship. When you're ready, click the big bay doors dead ahead to begin the tutorial.
Tutorial
This game is meant to be played with a joystick plus mouse and keyboard, but you can get by with just the latter two. Freespace includes an excellent three-part tutorial that walks you through all the finer points of being a GTA pilot. By the time the tutorial is finished you'll be very comfortable with your ship and its basic systems. The early missions of the game are also pretty basic, so you can get used to flying in low-risk combat situations. Things heat up fast, though, so be ready!
Flying Missions
Freespace is a mission based game, but it's not completely linear. The missions and storyline branch based on decisions you make throughout the game. A briefing that outlines objectives and gives you the opportunity to customize your ship precedes each mission. During most missions you'll be accompanied by other fighters. These wingmen will respond to your orders and do their best to help you achieve the mission objectives. During later missions, it's in your best interest to work as a team.
Ship Types
Descent: Freespace includes a number of different fighting craft to fly. Depending on the mission parameters, you may wish to select a different ship than the recommended one. They're all suited for different tasks, and your flying style has a big impact on which craft you'll like. You can also customize your ship's complement of cannons and missiles -- experiment with them all to pick your favorites. Remember that your loadout can mean the difference between success and failure in a mission.
Capital Ships
All three sides possess mighty capital ships -- battleships and carriers so huge your vessel will seem like a gnat in comparison. These ponderous vessels depend on fighters for screening and fast attacks, since they tend to be slow and vulnerable to torpedo fire. But they're far from defenseless -- many bristle with guns and can launch additional fighters if they need to. Many of your missions will involve protecting GTA capital ships...or leading a fighter assault on enemy cruisers.
Tip: Shockwaves
If one of the massive capital ships is going down, get away from it as quickly as you can. The shockwave from the explosion will tear your fighter apart.
Tip: Sliding
This maneuver takes some getting used to, but it's crucial to success. By holding down the slide key (default Shift) and moving left or right, you can rotate your fighter without changing direction. Think of it as a way to strafe an enemy without the need to come about.
Tip: Power Levels
You can adjust the amount of power each of your ship's subsystems gets: if you want more shields, just draw power from some other system. This is helpful if you've been seriously damaged.
Tip: Settings
You can adjust nearly everything in the game from the options screen on the right hand side of the hangar bay. Tweak your HUD, alter default controls and make any other changes you want to customize the experience.
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